William “Junebug” as he was affectionately called by his friends and family, was born July 4, 1943 to the late James Oscar Turner and Maggie Carter Turner in North Carolina.  He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized in Jesus’ name.  He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring after 20 years of faithful service.  He was a distinguished leader, skilled seamstress, decorated hero, and all-around fun-loving guy.  His life was a testament to his dedication to community, family and service.

An ardent hunter, Junebug served as past president of the Golden Eagles Hunting Club in Smithville, VA, where he was a member since 1978.  His leadership and passion for the outdoors fostered a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that will be remembered by all who knew him. As the first Black Governor of Virginia Moose Lodge #1514 in Hampton, Virginia, William broke barriers and served two consecutive terms, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community service.

In addition to his leadership roles, Junebug was a talented seamstress. He lovingly crafted maternity dresses for his beloved wife, Tina, made custom curtains for friends and neighbors, and even tailored his own suits, thereby showcasing his remarkable skills and attention to detail. His kindness extended beyond his immediate family; when at the tender age of 20, he purchased a prom gown for his cousin Florine, one of many acts of generosity that highlighted his caring nature.

William's bravery and quick thinking were exemplified during his service in the Air Force while stationed in Germany and on vacation in Holland. He saved the life of a young American girl by administering lifesaving first aid after she was critically injured in a car accident.  His fluent grasp of the German language significantly aided in the communications barrier with on-the-scene foreign medical personnel, an act for which he received glowing commendations from the Air Force, solidifying his reputation as a hero.

In his heyday, Junebug was a whirlwind of energy and charisma.  He had a larger-than -life personality that made him a beloved figure in his community.  He loved to dance and entertain and started showcasing his talent early in life as a premier drum major at Carver High school in Newport News, VA.  In later years, while stationed at Fort Lee, VA, he became a local disc jockey and attained popular notoriety as “The Hot Dog Man.”  He often reminisced about the times he performed on stage dancing with the late great James Brown and Tina Turner. 

Junebug’s legacy is one of kindness, leadership, bravery, and enjoyment of life. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Veronica (Oliver Lewis); sister, Betty (Monroe Paige); brother, Sammy; and great-grandchild, Janiyia. 

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 62 years ,Tina; son, William; daughter, Sylvia; son, Drew; sister, Martha (William Haywood), brother, Drewy (Wendy); grandchildren: Erik, Isaiah, Iyana, Jacquel, Jera, Kezia, and Whitney; 6 great-grandchildren, two loving aunts: Mary McNeil and Catherine Gunter; as well as a host of nieces, nephews cousins and friends.   

Please sign the online guest registry at www.heritagemfh.com and leave a personal condolence for the family.

Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory has the honor of being entrusted with the arrangements.